Unsolicited Anniversary Message from Cebu

To all BAKTAS MSU members and applicants, in and outside of our General Santos City base:

Don’t know how to start this message since by just thinking we are already 9 years old, the fact overwhelms me. Memories of how we started this organization, and nurture it all through the years full of ups and downs made me realized we are “there” yet, or, aren’t we there yet? With 9 full years, I still could not answer it.

Let me start by thanking you 'ALL' mga 'tol. Thank you for believing in our ideals and thank you for giving all that is you. Nine years is impossible without the leadership of the past 9 presidents, and the all-out support of all the members and applicants.We are witness on how some of our members offered their lives for the group. No words can even match their selflessness.

One thing that struck me with this organization is on how it defines brotherhood amidst nothingness. It only proves that camaraderie matters over money. More than the climbs, we nurture relationships. And it shows with the growing roster of membership.

Our activities were conducted out of great minds and resourcefulness. We always say that the most important part of the activity is on how we bonded as a group and the lessons we learned from it. Despite obstacles, many of them, we left no stones unturned. And it turned out each is a great success. We have the Kabantugan Award, our fruit of labor, the fruit of our fun.

The most important is on how each one of us transformed from just a common student to a more aware and self-made environmental advocates. Discipline was the most difficult word but it was along time, learned to be part of our everyday life.

We dreamed of one day we can gather all of us in a climb outside of our base area in a full comfortable gear, less the financial worries. We dreamed of conducting activities without the need tolook for partner organizations. We are nearing these dreams...

Ahead of us is more challenging year. I am praying that God may always fire the passion that is within our hearts. May we be guided by our mission and vision, and struggle to be the best that we can.

Happy anniversary guys. We deserve a celebration. Thank you for being part of this organization! With our feet on the ground, we are proud to say "nine na mi!"

A toast for a more fruitful years to come!